· If you use insulin, make sure you also pack a glucagon emergency kit. Keep your insulin cool

· Have snacks, glucose gel or tables and bottled water available

· If flying, keep diabetic supplies in carry-on luggage

· If you are flying and have an insulin pump, talk to a security officer before walking through a metal detector

· If a meal will be served during your flight, call ahead for a diabetic, low fat or low cholesterol meal. If the airline doesn’t offer a meal, bring a nutritious meal yourself. Wait until your food is about to be served before you take your insulin.

CDC also reminds us that living with diabetes is also about learning to keep in balance. Diabetes can cause health problems over time but many problems do not have to happen if you strive for balance. This balance includes your diet, physical activity and medications that will offer a better prognosis to your health.

And if in balance, diabetes is available at reasonable costs for type 2. Women who are 25 can get a $500,000 policy, 20 year term for approximately $35 dollars a month, men the same age for approximately $40 per month. At age 50, women can get a $500,000 policy for less than $100.00 per month.

Guaranteed life insurance with no medical exam is also available for those with diabetes but may be more costly. A good diet, exercise, self-management without medications and a later-in-life diagnosis will offer a better rate.